The Umhlanga ratepayers and the eThekwini Municipality met on Friday to discuss a wide range of issues, including homelessness and sewerage network challenges. 

eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, said that he had met with members of the Umhlanga Ratepayers and Residents Association (URRA) to discuss service delivery and issues affecting the area.

Xaba mentioned that the two-hour engagement addressed various issues, including the Durban metro police’s capacity to service the fast-growing precinct, ongoing water leaks, sewerage network challenges, stormwater drainage improvements, and homelessness.

He was accompanied by municipal officials from various service delivery units, who outlined a clear plan to address the challenges raised.

“The meeting forms part of the municipality’s ongoing commitment to work closely with communities to find sustainable solutions to service delivery challenges.”

Bradley Singh, eThekwini Ward 35 councillor, who was also present at the meeting, stated that it was a positive sign that Xaba is prepared to listen to the community members and stakeholders who raised concerns.

“There will be progress and future meetings to ensure better service delivery and to hold municipal officials accountable,” Singh said. 

Recently, the municipality announced the R60 million refurbishment of the Umhlanga Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW). The works were damaged during the April 2022 floods. 

Other issues that were resolved recently were the proposed construction of a mini-bus taxi rank in the suburb.

Singh noted that residents followed due process, and their well-articulated objections to the proposed taxi rank resulted in the correct outcome.

Singh also noted the upgrade to fencing at the Umhlanga police station and the call from the ratepayers for the Durban metro police satellite station in Prestondale to remain in Umhlanga. 

“Mayor Xaba is planning to have a follow-up meeting with security role-players to form a tight network to prevent crime and also illegal drag racing. About the Herwood Drive upgrade, the mayor urged residents to engage with the municipality. Xaba aims to improve service delivery. We know he will be good on his word because his senior officials were in the meeting. He can now hold them accountable,” Singh explained.  

zainul.dawood@inl.co.za 

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